China may have started the Asian Qualifiers in fine form but that should be of no concern for Philippines when they take on the East Asians in their Matchday Four Group A tie on Tuesday.
Marcello Lippi's China have scored 12 goals and conceded none in their opening two matches but coach Scott Cooper said Philippines should have no fear when the two teams face off at the Panaad Stadium in Bacolod.
"I don't think there's anything to be fearful of," said Cooper to local media.
"We know that they have a very good coach, a well-organised team, a strong powerful team and a competent well-financed team with a good front three."
China, seeking to qualify for the FIFA World Cup Finals for the second time, have indeed impressed with their attacking football as they saw off Maldives 5-0 and Guam 7-0.
The Azkals, meanwhile, opened their campaign with a 5-2 defeat against Syria before bouncing back to beat Guam 4-1.
Having not played on Matchday Three, Philippines will be well rested and prepared for China, who had to travel from Guangzhou to Bacolod City for the tie - which Cooper believes will be an advantage for his side.
Following Tuesday's match, Philippines will have back-to-back away ties, playing Maldives on November 14 and Syria five days later on the road to the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 and AFC Asian Cup China 2023.
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